For the last 12 months Operation Vulcan has relentlessly policed the areas of Cheetham Hill and Strangeways in Greater Manchester. What is perhaps less visible however is some of the work going on behind the scenes. Did you know for example that Operation Vulcan is funded from proceeds of crime? Money that's seized from criminals is distributed to police forces via the Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme (ARIS). Some of the funds are returned to Greater Manchester Police (GMP) to fund policing operations and community initiatives. The money recovered from criminals during Operation Vulcan has been added to the ARIS pot and as well as funding the operation, it is also being re-distributed back into the local community. Cheetwood Community Primary School in Cheetham Hill has received £20,000 in ARIS funding, enabling the school to purchase school signs that add a splash of colour to the playground, update their school mural board and purchase new playground equipment. Headteacher of Cheetwood Ellie Clark said: "This money is a fantastic benefit to the children and we're really grateful to the Operation Vulcan team for securing the funding for the school. "We've worked closely with officers and we've seen an increased police presence in the area and more engagement with the school which has been brilliant. "Officers have come into the school to talk to children and parents, they have attended our school fairs – including our Eid Fair and Community Fair – and parents have been kept updated. We look forward to continuing working together educating the children and changing perceptions of this area for the better." Detective Chief Inspector Jen Kelly of Operation Vulcan said: "Operation Vulcan is about more than enforcement. We want to make the Cheetham Hill area a safer and more vibrant place and put investment back into the community we serve. "One of the key ways we can do this is ensuring the money seized from criminals is put back into community projects. "We've also re-purposed over 900 tonnes of the seized counterfeit items to minimise the waste. Items such as hats, t-shirts and gloves have been made from safe materials, de-branded and donated to charities and local community organisations. "I think it's right that confiscated criminal assets are being given back to the community where they will do good. "During the next stage of Operation Vulcan, our officers will continue working closely with the Cheetham Hill Neighbourhood Team, Manchester City Council and the local community, listening to the concerns of residents and businesses so we can act on them and ultimately revitalise the area for the long-term and make it a better place to live and work." Non-profit organisations which benefit a large number of people, can apply for a maximum of £20,000 to fund 12 months' activities which pledge to support GMP's objectives to fight, prevent and reduce crime; keep people safe; and care for victims.
